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Writer's pictureSuha Mishal
Nov 104 min read

Diabetic Technology: How Innovations are Transforming Care

Around 537 million adults (aged 20-79) are estimated to have diabetes as of 2021, and the number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030. Type 2 diabetes accounts for the majority of these cases. Patients had to rely on finger prick tests for decades to ascertain their blood sugar levels. Today, there has been quite a change with technology revolutionizing the lives of diabetic patients with devices like CGMs, various software, and AI involved today.


Modern Tools Transforming Diabetes Care

Continuous Glucose Monitors are one of the main game-changing developments in this field. CGMs use a sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid. Interstitial fluid is the fluid in the spaces around your cells. It comes from substances that leak out of your blood capillaries. This data is transmitted wirelessly to a smartphone or a receiver for real-time tracking. CGMs have replaced the need for finger prick tests and allow for a patient to accurately track the patterns and trends in a patient's diabetes. Some examples include the Dexcom G6 and the Freestyle Libre. While effective CGMs have their drawbacks including of course the possibility of failures and inaccuracy, CGM's adhesives may trigger allergic reactions, and the constant barrage of information may be overwhelming to some.

Smart Insulin pens record insulin doses automatically and help prevent missed or incorrect doses. Smart Insulin pumps essentially deliver 'continuous' insulin throughout the day, mimicking the body's natural release. These pens and pumps connect to smartphones via Bluetooth and these are often integrated with your CGM to adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose data. They also provide detailed dose history and reminders.


The artificial pancreas is a system designed to automate blood glucose management for people with diabetes. It combines a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) with an insulin pump to adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose levels, helping maintain optimal blood sugar control.

There are several types of artificial pancreas systems. They include

  • threshold suspend and predictive suspend systems - The threshold suspend system halts insulin delivery when blood glucose falls to a predetermined level, while the predictive suspend system anticipates low blood glucose and suspends insulin before it occurs.

  • Insulin-only systems - Insulin-only systems help maintain blood glucose levels within the target range by automatically adjusting insulin delivery based on CGM readings. These systems can increase insulin doses when blood glucose levels rise above the target range.

  • Dual hormone systems - Researchers are developing and testing these systems that use insulin to lower glucose levels and glucagon to raise them. This approach mimics the pancreas's natural function in individuals without diabetes, potentially allowing for precise glucose control while reducing the risk of hypoglycemia


Mobile Apps and Software in General

Including all of the features discussed above regarding dosage, glucose levels, and so forth, these applications also can keep track of meals and physical activity. These apps also can remind you to take your medicine or check glucose levels, especially for geriatric patients who may struggle with keeping track. The biggest advantage perhaps is the fact that the data from all of these apps can be transferred to your healthcare provider for remote monitoring and personalised care.



Examples:

  • mySugr: A user-friendly app for tracking glucose, insulin, and meals, with challenges to motivate users.

  • Glooko: Integrates with multiple devices and offers data insights for better diabetes management.

  • Bezzy T2D - Provides an Online Forum where you can discuss your diagnosis with other patients.

  • Beat Diabetes - plenty of diabetes 101 information, from the foods to avoid to simple ways to increase your physical activity, you could be a master in no time. Learn the complications to watch for and stay up to date with treatment options, from medical to Ayurvedic.


The Role of AI and Data Analytics

There are a few AI-powered health assistants that analyze user data and can create personalized advice on managing diabetes. They also can suggest adjustments in diet and exercise. Algorithms process historical data to identify patterns, helping users achieve better glucose control by predicting potential highs and lows. For instance, Novo Nordisk developed AIDA or Artificial Intelligence Diabetes Assistant to support and empower individuals living with diabetes in Italy. AIDA provides users with a friendly interface for managing diabetes-related inquiries and challenges. Research from Kodema et al shows that current AI algorithms can accurately identify hypoglycemia with a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 80%. However, their effectiveness may vary based on individual patient risk profiles.


The Upsides (And Downsides) of AI

All patients have faced an improved quality of life as taking care of their diabetes is no longer a tedious task. Enhanced glucose control with AI also leads to better outcomes and allows for fewer complications. Technology has also improved cooperation between healthcare providers and patients.

On the other hand, the high prices of advanced diabetic technology can be a barrier for many patients exemplified by limited insurance coverage. These technologies are also usually unavailable in developing countries. Users may also encounter technological errors and they may also face difficulty in using technology to manage their diabetes. Not to mention the safety concerns regarding where their data may be going and for what it might be used.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the landscape of diabetes management has been dramatically transformed by advancements in technology, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), smart insulin pens, and artificial pancreas systems. These innovations not only improve health outcomes but also enhance the overall quality of life for individuals living with diabetes. The future of diabetes management is slowly unfolding before us, and we, its audience, eagerly await the day it reaches its full potential.


Written By: Suha Mishal


 

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